Grand National Assembly of Türkiye has begun reviewing a comprehensive bill aimed at reforming social legislation, with key measures targeting parental leave policies and the regulation of digital platforms.
The proposed law includes a significant extension of maternity leave, increasing it from 16 to 24 weeks. Women who have recently given birth and fall within the 24-week postnatal period at the time the law takes effect will be eligible—upon request—for an additional eight weeks of leave. Paternity leave is also set to double, rising from five to ten days.
In addition, civil servants who become foster families will be granted ten days of leave starting from the date a child is placed under their care, reflecting broader efforts to support family-based childcare solutions.
On the digital front, the bill introduces stricter regulations for social media platforms, prohibiting access for children under 15 and requiring companies to implement age verification mechanisms. Online gaming platforms will also be required to comply with content classification standards before distributing material.
The legislation further предусматривает enhanced social support measures, including direct financial assistance for women and children lacking sufficient income. These payments will be provided without deductions, based on criteria defined by law, and aim to reduce reliance on institutional childcare by supporting families and close relatives.
The bill is being examined as part of the parliament’s weekly agenda, alongside political party group meetings and the presentation of a joint subcommittee report linked to the 2025 public ombudsman’s annual review.
Source: AA
